The recent sale of Jeffrey Epstein's sprawling Zorro Ranch in New Mexico has drawn renewed attention following the identification of the buyer as the family of Donald Huffines, a Texas businessman and former state senator running for Comptroller. The property, where Epstein allegedly abused underage girls and young women, was sold in 2023 by Epstein's estate to a limited company. Questions have arisen regarding the purpose of the purchase and the new owner's relationship with the estate.
Background of Zorro Ranch and Epstein's Estate
Jeffrey Epstein, a financier convicted of sex trafficking, owned a vast property in Stanley, New Mexico, known as Zorro Ranch. The ranch, which includes a large mansion, became a site associated with allegations of sexual abuse involving underage victims. Following Epstein's death in August 2019, his estate entered into proceedings to administer his assets and settle debts.
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Epstein's estate, represented by attorney Daniel Weiner, confirmed the sale of Zorro Ranch in August 2023.
The sale price was not publicly disclosed, but proceeds are designated for the administration of the estate and to satisfy creditors.
The estate is scheduled to file its next quarterly accounting with the probate court in the U.S. Virgin Islands, which is expected to reveal the sales price.
The property's address was reportedly changed from 49 Zorro Ranch Road to 49 Rancho San Rafael Road.
Identification of the Buyer
The identity of the buyer of Zorro Ranch remained a subject of speculation for some time, partly due to New Mexico's allowance for anonymous property ownership through limited companies. Public records requests made by The New Mexican eventually linked the buyer, San Rafael Ranch LLC, to the family of Donald Huffines.
Donald Huffines is a businessman and a former Republican state senator from Texas.
He is currently campaigning to become the Texas Comptroller, a position responsible for the state's financial management.
Huffines' campaign spokesperson, Allen Blakemore, confirmed the purchase to the Santa Fe New Mexican.
Blakemore stated that the Huffines family had not visited the property prior to its listing for auction.
Huffines' Political Aspirations and Connections
The sale has gained further attention due to Huffines' prominent political role and his public persona. He identifies himself as a "Trump Republican" and is actively engaged in a campaign for a significant state office in Texas.
Huffines is running for Texas Comptroller in the upcoming primary election.
Recent polling indicates he holds a lead over other candidates in the GOP primary.
The articles note the potential for controversy given the property's history and Epstein's crimes.
Inquiries and Official Statements
While the purchase has been confirmed, the specific intentions behind the acquisition of Zorro Ranch by the Huffines family have not been fully detailed.
Huffines' spokesperson declined to answer specific questions regarding the purpose of the property purchase when approached by The New Mexican.
The estate attorney confirmed the sale and stated the proceeds would be used as per legal estate administration.
There is no public information to suggest the property has been searched by authorities in connection with the sale itself.
Expert and Public Reaction
The news has generated discussion, particularly concerning the implications of a political figure's family acquiring a property with such a troubled history.
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The association of the property with Epstein's alleged crimes and the buyer's political standing has prompted scrutiny.
The Texas Tribune and The Guardian reported on the confirmation of the buyer, highlighting Huffines' political campaign.
Sources:
The Guardian: A comprehensive report detailing the confirmation of the purchase by the Huffines family, referencing documents and the family's political affiliation. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/16/epstein-ranch-new-mexico-purchase-republican-candidate
Texas Tribune: Provides details on the sale occurring after Epstein's death and the family's prior lack of familiarity with the property. https://www.texastribune.org/2026/02/13/don-huffines-jeffrey-epstein-ranch-new-mexico-texas/
The Daily Beast: Focuses on the "MAGA Candidate" aspect and the process of renaming the property, linking the purchase to public records. https://www.thedailybeast.com/maga-candidate-outed-as-new-owner-of-epstein-property
KOB.com: Confirms Donald Huffines as the owner and mentions New Mexico's laws regarding anonymous property ownership. https://www.kob.com/new-mexico/santa-fe-northern-new-mexico/who-is-the-new-owner-of-epsteins-new-mexico-ranch/
AP News: Reports on the initial sale of the ranch for an undisclosed price to a newly registered company, citing the estate's attorney. https://apnews.com/article/epstein-new-mexico-ranch-sold-e64177937232cecad4901531730ec748
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